Publishing

The Publishing track will involve topics focused on the business and mechanics of publishing, including print, eBook, and other markets (such as audio books).  This track offers content for all kinds of publishing solutions, such as major/independent press, small press, and self-publishing avenues.

PUBLISHING

“For the Love” Isn’t Always Love: Authors, editors, and publishers discuss the usefulness of “For the Love” anthologies, the proper way to select them, and the potential for scams in those markets.

Amazon, Oh Amazon: Amazon has single-handedly changed the landscape of the publishing industry. It’s quick, cheap, and easy…but what’s the trade-off for that sort of instant gratification? What’s next for authors in the face of this retail giant?

Avoiding Self-Publishing Pitfalls: You’ve written your book…now what? Self-publishing, the growing new trend, lends a unique chance to completely control your creative outlets. However, like any other new system, there are some risks. Come hear what our authors have to say about self-publishing’s pros and cons and what it means to be in complete control of your work.

Breaking the Cycle: It’s not an easy road from hobbyist to professional. Editors can be tough and negative reviews sting. But if you believe in yourself, good things can happen. Our authors will taken an hour to tell all about their individual literary journeys.

Cover Art for the Self Published: Self-published authors are responsible for making sure every aspect of their book is perfect. With cover art often being the first and only chance to catch a reader’s attention, some would contend that it’s just as important as the story itself. Our self-published authors discuss best practices for procuring good artwork for your self-published titles.

Fiction for Children: An in-depth discussion about writing and publishing fiction for children.

Here There Be Scumbags: Scams built on separating new and aspiring writers from their hard-earned cash are everywhere. Learn to spot a legitimate opportunity and identify a scam.

Indie or Agent: Publishing professionals discuss the pros and cons of an author choosing to contract and agent or remain independent, including a discussion of presses of varying sizes and the amount of work and control that goes into publishing a book on both sides of the coin.

Making Your Novel Shine in an Editor’s Eyes: Our editors and publishing pros give the low-down on what they want to see in a submission. From checking your plot to polishing your dialogue, this is the tell-all panel for prospective authors looking to break into the market.

Paths of Publishing: A look at various publishing avenues – major press, indie press, and self-publishing – and what it means to be a part of each. Come listen to our panelists, ask questions, and decide which path is right for you.

Pitch Perfect: If you’re looking to pitch a book to a publisher, this is the panel for you. Our panelists discuss the right way to build a pitch. Bring your best pitches for the chance at a critique!

Publishing Magazines: Have you ever sent  story to a magazine? Or perhaps you’re thinking of starting your own.  Our publishing professionals talk candidly about editing magazines and the triumphs and tribulations that come with getting each edition out on time.

Publishing Nightmares Roundtable: From editorial mishaps to publisher scams, the literary world isn’t always a bed of roses. Our panelists share some cautionary tales of the dark underbelly of publishing.

Putting an End to Piracy: Piracy is an artist’s worst nightmare. Our panelists discuss forms of piracy and the best ways to help stop the theft of creative property.

Read the Instructions: There are two things every artist needs – a strong product (be it a manuscript, play, or film), and a strong understanding of the submission guidelines. On this panel, our pros will walk you through submission etiquette for new artists.

So You Wrote a Book – The Idiot’s Guide to Small Press Publishing: Writing the book is only the beginning of the journey! Come here our authors, editors, and publishers talk about what it takes to get a book published in the Small Press world, from edits to cover art, and even promotion.

What Writers’ Organizations Can Do For You, and What You Can Do For Them: From promotion to awards, this panel hosts a frank discussion of literary organizations, membership guidelines, and proper etiquette when joining and participating.

What’s in a Name: There are so many tags and titles in today’s publishing world. How are we as writers supposed to stand out from the crowd? With our titles, of course! Come talk to our industry professionals and learn tips and tricks for properly naming your books, your series, and even your website.

Whose Genre Is it Anyway: Best practices for properly categorizing your book for the right market to get it in the hands of the people who want to read it.